JAMES PERCH believes that playing in front of the Toon Army is a unique experience.

The former Nottingham Forest man has hailed the “knowledgeable” St James’ Park crowd – and feels that the floodlit backdrop to this evening’s clash with West Brom will intimidate the Black Country outfit.

Perch, who partnered Fabricio Coloccini at the heart of the back four against Swansea City, admits he gets a real buzz from playing in front of 50,000-plus crowds, and has paid tribute to the Geordie fans ahead of the clash with the Baggies.

Perch told the Chronicle: “It’s perfect to play in front of a crowd like this.

“You can hear the roar and they are always just willing you on.

“When you are shooting towards the Gallowgate End it is just unbelievable as a player.

“I know it’s a cliche, but we really do have the 12th man here. They suck the ball into the net for you here.”

And after the disappointment of not finding a way past Swansea keeper Michel Vorm last Saturday, Perch hopes the dam will burst against the team from the Hawthorns.

Speaking about Albion, Perch said: “Every team that comes to St James’ Park will think ‘this is going to be tough’.

“The fans are passionate and get right behind the boys.

“West Brom will be no different. Yes, they are a good side and well drilled under Roy Hodgson.

“But we know what they will bring and they will pose a threat. However, it will still be tough.

“As a team we know that the crowd are behind us.

“It can intimidate the opposition and make them go into their shell a bit.”

Perch was not too downhearted about the 0-0 draw with the Swans, and feels that a haul of four points from six out of two home games will be a decent tally.

He said: “The Swansea result sets up tonight.

“We are just trying to build on each performance.”

Albion will arrive undergoing their own injury crisis, with Roy Hodgson having to recall his outfield loan players.

Perch didn’t want to underestimate the Baggies, and said: “They a spirited side and they have a good base.

“Roy Hodgson’s a good manager. He went in there and made them solid again.”

However, Newcastle are recovering from their own injury problems with Coloccini back in the fold.

Perch said: “It’s massive to have Colo back – he is big and experienced, and his all-round game is fantastic.

“He’s a great player. It’s a massive boost to have him back in the side.”